Protean Stars Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis Likely to Play for World XI

Pakistan, once a formidable team in the sport of cricket saw itself away from the sport for nearly 8 years after it lost the existence of cricket on home soil following a terrorist attack in 2009. Since then, Pakistan cricket has fallen to a sub-par level. Emergence as the Champions in ICC Champions Trophy 2017 was something that raised hopes of a resurgence of Pakistan Cricket. The success of PSL adds stars to the future of Pakistan cricket. But the revival of cricket in its own soil is yet a question to ponder. Except few lower ranked teams and associates like Zimbabwe, Kenya, Afghanistan, Pakistan has failed to conduct tournaments on the home soil over the years. Even the PSL was shifted to UAE due to security reasons. A successful PSL Final in Lahore was the only thing to cheer for the fans back in Pakistan. However, some great news is in the store now for Pakistan fans as the World XI is expected to play a 3-match T20 series in Lahore in September.

Adding to the grandeur of the world XI, South African stars Hashim Amla and Faf Du Plessis are likely to feature in the side, either of them leading the team. Confirming to the reports, an official said,”Two big names in South Africa and world cricket, Hashim Amla and Faf du Plessis, have consented to touring Pakistan with the ICC World XI and one of them will be the captain of the side.”

If the sources are believed to be true, the International Cricket Council (ICC) and PCB are currently processing financial and insurance matters for World XI players.PCB Chairman Najam Sethi said that 15 players from seven countries had agreed to visit Pakistan as part of the World XI squad.Sethi said: “Players from England, New Zealand, West Indies, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Zimbabwe have agreed to play the World XI tournament in Pakistan. India, however, has declined to send players.”Former Zimbabwe captain Andy Flower will act as the coach for the visiting side and has been assigned to select the squad for the tour, which is financially supported by the ICC.